Outlook

Broadband Internet is playing a major role in society’s transformation into an information and knowledge society. Broadband technology is having an enormous impact on Germany’s economy and society as well as on its international competitiveness and the educational opportunities for its citizens. The extent to which Germany is able to successfully meet the challenges stemming from this transformation process will determine the future prosperity of every resident. This is the clear conclusion from the findings of “Deutschland Online 3.”

The share of information and communications technology (ICT) in Germany’s overall economic performance will continue to go up sharply. Within the coming decade ICT will develop into Germany’s leading economic sector, taking the place of the automotive industry. This trend will also result in the creation of new jobs. At the same time, it will become more difficult for “offliners” to assert themselves in the job market and society as a whole.

The evolution of the broadband market will be reflected in convergence, i.e. the convergence of access, communications and content offerings — the so-called “Triple Play”. For the consumer, Triple Play will open up completely new applications and options in broadband Internet usage, making it easier and more convenient to take advantage of content offerings and thus contributing to converting “offliners” to “onliners”. A considerable percentage of voice communications will take place over the Internet — via Voice over IP.

As bandwidth continues to increase, video telephony will also become more and more accessible. Broadband technology will become increasingly important in maintaining one’s social network — a key element in an increasingly mobile age. In the future it will be considered commonplace that video and TV offerings come via the Internet. The use of broadband Internet will no longer be limited to domestic PCs. With the networking of Home Entertainment and household appliances, the “digital home” will go from being a vision to becoming reality.

New, broadband-based security and convenience applications will improve the quality of life of all individuals. It will also help to save on energy and resources. The technological progress embodied by broadband also has a considerable capacity to help conserve the environment. Beyond a doubt: both opportunities and challenges will arise from developing the potential of broadband Internet. The integration of new media in educational and vocational training programs constitutes a key prerequisite for improving Germany’s educational system. It will create a basis for continued prosperity.

E-government will help improve the efficiency of public administration as well as eliminate bureaucracy — essential steps in insuring Germany’s competitiveness as a business location. International comparisons show that Germany still has some catching up to do in the development of broadband Internet. The task with regard to the global competition is to narrow the gap so that Germany can take advantage of all the future options discussed.

The findings of “Deutschland Online 3” however also make one thing very clear: Every advantage of broadband technology can be utilized. Mere prospects can be transformed into genuine opportunities. And there is no reason why Germany should be incapable of meeting these challenges.